Maca root benefits, uses, and history

Maca Root: Benefits, Uses, and History

Ever wonder why the demand for products featuring Maca root has skyrocketed in recent years? Well, there’s a really good reason for it! Let’s discover the incredible ways maca can help with various medical conditions. And here’s an exciting bonus for you: if you’re facing challenges in your sexual life, the Maca plant claims to have some serious potential in ramping up your sex drive and boosting your overall sexual health. 

So, are you ready to dive deeper into the captivating world of Maca root? Let’s get started!

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The Definition: Scientifically known as Lepidium meyenii, Maca is a remarkable Peruvian plant loaded with essential amino acids and free fatty acids. It’s also a great source of protein, iron, calcium, potassium, and other vital nutrients. 

The Process: Maca roots are harvested in late winter and early spring, then sun-dried for at least 10 days. They are then washed thoroughly and ground into a fine powder.

How To Take: Maca root is typically taken in powder form, but it can also be taken in capsules or in liquid form. It is generally safe to consume but may not be suitable for everyone, so consult with your doctor first.

History: A powerful adaptogen, Maca root originates from the Andes Mountains of Peru. It has a rich history of cultivation for over 2000 years and has been traditionally used by the Incas and Andeans to address various health concerns and promote overall well-being.


All About Maca Root

Today, Maca root is widely available in many forms, including capsules, powders, and extracts. It is also available in many health food stores, and can even be found online already.

The importance of Maca root lies in its ability to help the body adapt to stress, balance hormones, improve energy levels, and reduce fatigue. But the highlight comes in its potential to enhance fertility, libido, and sexual performance by increasing muscle strength and endurance.


The Making

Maca roots are commonly processed into a fine powder for use in capsules or liquids. Let’s try to examine each step involved in the production of Maca root powder:


Location: Maca plants exclusively grow in the central Andes at altitudes between 4000m and 4500m. The location is crucial to ensure that Maca roots are of high quality when harvested.


Harvesting Time: Farmers have to wait until the roots have a diameter of about 3 cm, and Maca roots are usually harvested between the summer and autumn seasons.


Drying Stage: The harvested Maca roots are dried either under the sun on top of the mountains or using dehydrators in processing plants.


Sorting and Cleansing: Maca roots are meticulously inspected for color and size, after which they are thoroughly cleansed to remove any remaining dirt.


Processing: The selected Maca roots are sliced into smaller pieces and processed to be transformed into a fine powder.


Safety Testing: The resulting Maca powder is carefully examined to ensure it is free from any debris or heavy metals. The powder also undergoes laboratory testing to analyze and verify the levels of amino acids and nutrient content.


Benefits Of Maca Root

While research on Maca root is still ongoing, it has already shown promising potential for enhancing sexual and physical health. Here are some of the top benefits you can enjoy from incorporating Maca root products into your routine:


Increase Libido: It is believed that Maca root increases testosterone levels, improves sperm quality and quantity, which can lead to an increased sex drive.


Reduce Erectile Dysfunction: In a study, researchers found that the group of men applied with Maca root extract experienced a significant improvement in erectile function compared to the placebo group.


Boost Energy and Endurance: Maca contains several essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and zinc, which are all important for energy production and muscle recovery. 


Promote Fertility: Studies have shown that Maca root can increase sperm count and motility in men, as well as improve ovulation in women.


Improve Mood: Maca root has been found to have potential in reducing depression and anxiety, possibly attributed to its amino acids and fatty acids that act as mood regulators. Additionally, its high content of B vitamins may contribute to enhanced mood and mental performance.



FAQs

What does maca root do for the body?

Maca root is an adaptogenic herb that supports the body in managing stress and offers a range of benefits. These include boosting libido, reducing erectile dysfunction, enhancing energy and endurance, improving fertility, and uplifting mood.

 

Who shouldn't take maca?

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take Maca root, as well as individuals with thyroid disorders or hormone-sensitive conditions. Consulting with a doctor beforehand is recommended to ensure the safety of taking Maca root.


Should maca root be taken everyday?

To fully reap the benefits of Maca root, it is recommended to take it daily, with the appropriate dosage which varies depending on the individual’s needs.


Is maca safe to take long term? 

Yes, Maca root is generally safe for long-term use but it is advisable to consult with a doctor beforehand, particularly if you are on other medications or have an existing medical condition.

 

Can I take maca on an empty stomach?

Yes, Maca root can be taken on an empty stomach. But like other supplements, it is best to take Maca with food or a glass of water to help prevent any stomach upset.

 

Is maca safe for the liver? 

Yes, Maca root is generally safe for the liver and was not found to have any adverse effects on the liver. However, if you have any pre-existing liver conditions, consult with your doctor first.


Does maca interact with anything?

Maca root may interact with certain medications like hormone replacement therapy, thyroid medications, and blood thinners, so if you are undergoing any of these treatments, make sure to talk to your physician first.


Sources: 

  1. Kubala, Jillian. “4 Benefits of Maca Root (and Potential Side Effects).” Healthline, 6 Jan. 2022, www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-maca-root#:~:text=May%20increase%20libido&text=A%202015%20study%20in%2045,with%20a%20placebo%20(%203%20).
  2. Mishra, Shruti. “How Does Maca Root Help Male and Female Fertility?” Freshly Moms, www.freshlymoms.com/blogs/news/maca-root-male-female-fertility#:~:text=Studies%20have%20found%20a%20positive,to%20nourish%20the%20reproductive%20system. Accessed 1 June 2023. 
  3. Shin, Byung-Cheul, et al. “Maca (L. Meyenii) for Improving Sexual Function: A Systematic Review.” BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 6 Aug. 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2928177/. 
  4. “10 Health Benefits of Maca Root.” Medical News Today, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322511#:~:text=5.-,Improving%20mood,feelings%20of%20anxiety%20and%20depression. Accessed 1 June 2023. 
  5. “7 Benefits of Maca Root, According to Experts.” Forbes, 20 Apr. 2023, www.forbes.com/health/body/maca-root-benefits/.